The long-awaited Dana Point Harbor Revitalization Project is making strides, with updates across the marina, retail spaces, and the development of new hotels. Designed to transform the harbor into a vibrant and modern destination while preserving its charm, the project’s phased approach ensures ongoing public access and minimal disruption to local businesses and recreational activities.
Marina Updates
In the marina, the revitalization is progressing steadily, with major milestones achieved and more on the horizon. The Dock of the Purple Lantern, now fully operational and occupied, marks the successful completion of a key phase. Meanwhile, Phase 8 is currently underway, with demolition in the west basin island replacing F-dock. This phase will introduce 35-foot, 50-foot, and 56-foot slips, with slip selection already underway. The new dock is expected to open for occupancy in March 2024.
Following Phase 8, the final west basin island phase will replace docks 22 and 23 in the remaining half of E-dock. Construction is set to begin in late March or early April 2025, with an anticipated completion date in July 2025, marking the completion of the west basin revitalization.
The east basin will then take center stage, starting with Phase 9 in July or August 2025, which will focus on the commercial fishing dock and N Dock. Subsequent phases will upgrade docks M, L, and K by late 2025, with the entire east basin island revitalization concluding by late 2026. The final stages of the project will address docks G through O in the east basin cove, with work beginning in late 2026 and wrapping up in fall 2027.
Restaurants and Retail
Construction on the harbor’s commercial core began on March 1, 2024, with Phases 1 and 2 slated for completion by summer 2025. These phases include the construction of a three-tiered parking structure at the corner of Golden Lantern and Dana Point Harbor Drive. Notable milestones include the first slab of concrete poured in July 2024, covering approximately 28,000 square feet, and the topping-out ceremony in October 2024, celebrating the highest point of the structure.
Underground utility work also commenced in July, paving the way for future phases of the revitalization. While construction is ongoing, retail shops, restaurants, whale watching tours, sportfishing charters, and the Catalina Express will remain open. Visitors can park in the main Mariner’s Village parking lot, with minimal disruption planned for businesses and public areas.
Once the first two phases are complete, construction will move to Phase 3 in 2025, focusing on development along the waterfront, followed by Phase 4, which includes the redevelopment of buildings within The Wharf.
Hotels
The revitalization project also includes two new hotels, approved unanimously by the California Coastal Commission on June 14, 2024. After nearly four years of negotiations, the approval reflects a commitment to community benefits, with more than $6 million earmarked for Orange County-based service organizations over the life of the project.
The next review for this development is scheduled for March 2025, with Dana Point Harbor Partners and the City of Dana Point collaborating to bring this vision to life. The hotels are expected to add a new dimension to the harbor, enhancing its appeal as a premier coastal destination.
Looking Ahead
The Dana Point Harbor Revitalization Project is an ambitious effort to modernize and rejuvenate the harbor while maintaining its accessibility and preserving its legacy. With its phased approach, the project is ensuring minimal disruption to visitors, residents, and businesses. As the construction progresses, the harbor is steadily transforming into a dynamic hub for recreation, dining, and hospitality, all while staying true to its roots as a treasured community landmark. For more information, visit https://danapointharbor.com/revitalization/construction-schedule/.
